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Sure, it’s nice to hear those holiday standards year after year. But it’s always cool to hear different takes on our seasonal favorites from time to time. And when you’re a fan of jazz, swing or even soul music, it’s possible to find the yuletide tunes you love in the musical stylings that you enjoy. So, here are six songs to help you celebrate the season and spread some holiday cheer.
Ramsey Lewis Trio – Here Comes Santa Claus
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If it’s innovation you want, Ramsey Lewis will definitely bring it. The Grammy winner and NEA Jazz Master has carved out an illustrious career with his unforgettable sound and collaborations with a number of crossover jazz artists. So, it comes as no surprise that Lewis’ take on “Here Comes Santa Claus” would be anything but boring. Released in 1961, this lively rendition is perfect for those cool holiday hangouts with friends or a nice dinner party without the kids.
Kurt Elling – “Cool Yule”
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With his warm, rich baritone voice and a four-octave range, Kurt Elling is known for being a virtuoso instrumentalist and a compelling storyteller. This Grammy winner has worked with a number of artists including Night is Alive’s own Willie Jones III.”Cool Yule” was his contribution to Blue Note Record’s 1997 album, “Blue Christmas.” The song was written in 1951 by Steve Allen and first introduced by Louis Armstrong. It’s definitely the right song for the coolest time of the year.
Billie Holiday & Her Orchestra – “I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVW7tECW-ZA
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This song was written in 1937 by Irvin Berlin for the musical “On the Avenue.” While the musical wasn’t a smashing success, “I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm” went on to become a seasonal standard. Versions of the song were recorded by Les Brown, Frank Sinatra and even Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. But Holiday’s rendition just has the right amount of swing and sultriness. Again, it’s perfect for holiday party playlists or those quiet winter nights by a crackling fire.
Louis Prima & His New Orleans Gang – “What Will Santa Claus Say?” (When He Finds Everybody Swingin’)
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Not going to lie. I first heard a sample of this song while listening to “4th Dimension” by Kids See Ghosts last year and had no idea that it was a Christmas song. Released in 1936, “What Will Santa Claus Say?” captures the spirit of swing and the holidays in one song. It’s quirky, fun and will help keep the good times going during your reindeer games.
Ray Charles And Betty Carter – “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”
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Written in 1944, “Baby It’s Cold Outside” had been on a wild ride. It’s been recorded by Pearl Bailey and Hot Lips Page, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Jordan, Dinah Shore and Buddy Clark, Vanessa Williams and Bobby Caldwell and many, many more over the years. In an attempt to clean up the lyrics given recent backlash, John Legend and Kelly Clarkson even recorded a slightly modified, modern version this year. But, whether you love it or hate it, “Baby It’s Cold Outside” is here to stay. Ray Charles and Betty Carter recorded their take on it in 1961 and it doesn’t get any jazzier than this. So, if you’re looking for a more laidback version with some slamming horns, give this one a try.
Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings – “8 Days (of Hanukkah)”
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The world lost a true legend when Sharon Jones passed away in 2016. But her soulful and powerful voice lives on through the music she left behind. “8 Days of Hanukkah” is a departure from the norm in a fun and soulful way. The song is from Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings’ 2015 album, “It’s a Holiday Soul Party.” While it’s not jazz, it’s a great addition to your holiday playlist, especially if you’ve been looking for modern Hanukkah songs. It’s funky, original and it reminds you why many of us loved Ms. Jones so much.
Find the Best Christmas Jazz Music at Night is Alive
If you’re looking for new tunes for your holiday playlist, we can help. Night is Alive is proud to offer two Christmas albums for 2019 that’ll have you tapping your toes into 2020. Check out “Night Is Alive’s First Christmas” by the Night Is Alive All-Stars and “Christmas in the Dog House” by the Bill Cunliffe Trio. Both are available right now in our store. And if you’d like to book one of our wonderful musicians for an upcoming party or event, contact us today.
